Do you rent an apartment, condo, or home and are in need of a wheelchair ramp? Wheelchair ramps can dramatically increase everyday accessibility for mobility device users. 

If you would like to install a wheelchair ramp as a renter, you may have a handful of questions, such as: 

• How do I ask my landlord to approve a wheelchair ramp installation? 
• Who pays for a new wheelchair ramp?
• What wheelchair ramps are best for renters?

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about adding a wheelchair ramp to your rented home, so that you can create more accessible, safe pathways for you or loved ones. 

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), landlords are required to provide “reasonable accommodations” for tenants with disabilities, so that they ensure all tenants have equal access to housing. This definition of “reasonable” accommodations can vary depending on the situation. 

In some cases, reasonable modifications can include allowing the installation of a wheelchair ramp. 

HOUSING DISCRIMINATION UNDER THE FAIR HOUSING ACT

Just because a landlord is required to allow a wheelchair ramp under reasonable accommodation, doesn’t mean that they are required to pay for it. Often, tenants must pay for and maintain the wheelchair ramp themselves. 

Ultimately, the decision of who pays for a wheelchair ramp is specific to your individual situation. It will depend on factors like your specific needs, the type of ramp requested, and the property owners' discretion. 

Request in Writing: If you require a wheelchair ramp installed on a property that you are renting, it’s best to formally request this modification in writing. 

Provide Medical Documentation: If you can, provide medical documentation from a physician that clarifies the need for a ramp– this can go a long way in proving the need for the wheelchair ramp under reasonable accommodation. 

Research Local Law: Fair housing obligations and disabled tenant rights to accessibility modifications can vary depending on your situation, state, and local laws. There’s no “one size fits all” answer, and it’s best to do your own research and discuss options with your landlord. 

See our range of:

• Commercial ramps
• Portable ramps
• Van ramps
• Bariatric Threshold Ramps

Both temporary and permanent wheelchair ramps have unique advantages and disadvantages. Installing a permanent wheelchair ramp may increase property value for a housing provider, but comes with increased costs and the need for a building permit. 

For tenants, a temporary wheelchair ramp may often be a more attractive option if you are paying for the cost of the ramp. Temporary wheelchair ramps are usually more cost-effective, and can be taken with you if you move locations. 

Pros
Cons
Permanent
Can increase property value
Customized to match the property design and specifications
Designed for long-term use
May require a building permit
Can be costly
Not able to transport or relocate

Temporary
Can be transported to new rental units
Can be cost-effective
May not be suitable for long-term use or very heavy loads

Temporary wheelchair ramps can be an ideal option for renters, especially if your property owner is hesitant to install a permanent ramp. These ramps are designed to be disassembled and can be taken with you to your next rental accommodation. 

Aluminum Modular Ramps: Made from high-strength lightweight aluminum, these ramps can be perfectly configured to any space. They are best for situations where a high ramp rise is needed or a space requires a custom ramp. 

Threshold Ramps: Threshold ramps are designed to provide a smooth, safe transition over raised landings, doorway thresholds, or small curbs and steps. 

Portable Wheelchair Ramps: These ramps are lightweight and easy to install, making them easy to set up and begin using right away. While they aren’t built for long-term use like aluminum modular ramps, they are affordable and provide accessibility with virtually no installation time. 

As a renter, the details of installing a wheelchair ramp will vary depending on your local laws, landlord preference, and your specific needs. 

Generally, property owners must allow for needed wheelchair ramps under the “reasonable accommodation” clause of the Fair Housing Act (FHA). While landlords must allow these modifications, it may fall to the tenant to fund the purchase and installation of a wheelchair ramp. 

For these reasons, we often recommend temporary wheelchair ramps for renters. These ramps don’t require building permits, are affordable, and can be moved to additional locations when your rental period expires. 

Need some help deciding on a wheelchair ramp? With decades of experience, our team of product experts here at Med Mart would love to help you find the perfect ramp for your rental home.